Seventeen-Year-Old Joy Ogah Steps Into Nigeria’s Vice Presidency for a Day: A Remarkable Leadership Experience!

• At just seventeen years old, Joy Ogah assumed the role of Nigeria’s Vice President, Kashim Shettima, for a single day.
• This symbolic gesture was designed to elevate the perspectives and concerns of the youth.
• The event was held in partnership with PLAN International to support this cause.

On Monday, seventeen-year-old Joy Ogah was given the unique opportunity to act as Nigeria’s Vice President, Kashim Shettima, for a day. This symbolic handover was intended to spotlight the voices of young Nigerians and empower them in national discourse.

In collaboration with PLAN International, this initiative provided Ogah with a platform to advocate passionately for the education and rights of girls throughout Nigeria.

During her brief tenure, she highlighted a pressing issue: over 10.5 million children are currently out of school, with girls making up more than 60% of this figure. She urged government officials to guarantee that education is safe, inclusive, and of excellent quality, stressing that every girl deserves the chance to learn in an environment that respects her dignity.

Vice President Shettima voiced his endorsement of Ogah’s campaign, reaffirming the federal government’s dedication to advancing girl-child education and fostering inclusive learning environments. He also committed to ongoing partnerships with NGOs to support youth-led initiatives.

Ogah emphasized the importance of schools providing free sanitary products, access to clean water, proper sanitation facilities, and nutritious meals. She pointed out that these fundamental needs are essential to ensure girls can attend school consistently and without interruption.

She remarked, “Protecting girls paves the way for lasting peace,” urging that these priorities be embedded within national education strategies and school curricula. The Vice President’s office acknowledged her recommendations and pledged to work closely with relevant ministries to translate these ideas into actionable policies.

Her advocacy complements federal programs like the Renewed Hope Social Impact Interventions, which empower over 10 million women nationwide through initiatives such as livelihood grants, digital skills development, and access to sustainable energy solutions.

Moreover, the Ministry of Education and the National Assembly continue to champion gender-responsive policies, including mentorship schemes and campaigns aimed at eradicating gender discrimination within schools.

Joy Ogah’s day as Vice President serves as a powerful reminder of the vital role young people play in shaping policies that affect their futures directly.